Let’s Play! Classic Swedish Games Kids Still Love
Playing games is one of the best parts of childhood, and in Sweden, many traditional games have been enjoyed for generations. These games are fun, creative, and often played outdoors—perfect for children of all ages. Let’s take a look at three popular games Swedish kids love to play: Maypole, Kubb, and Blindbock.
Maypole Dancing: A Colorful Spring Tradition
One of the most well-known games in Sweden is Maypole dancing, especially popular on May Day and during Midsummer celebrations. A tall pole is placed in the ground and decorated with long, colorful ribbons. Children grab the ends of the ribbons and dance in a circle to music, weaving the ribbons tightly around the pole. It’s a joyful way to celebrate spring and enjoy the outdoors together.
Kubb: The Swedish Outdoor Game
Kubb is a unique and exciting outdoor game often compared to bowling or horseshoes. In Kubb, players take turns throwing wooden sticks to knock over wooden blocks (called kubbs) that are arranged on the ground. The goal is to knock down all the opponent’s blocks and then the “king” block in the center. Kubb is easy to learn and can be played by kids and adults together, making it a favorite at picnics and festivals.
Blindbock: A Game of Listening and Laughing
Blindbock, sometimes called “blind goat,” is similar to the game Marco Polo, but it’s played on land. One child wears a blindfold and is spun around two times. While blindfolded, the child tries to find and tag others—using only their ears to follow voices. It’s a fun challenge that helps develop listening skills and quick reactions.
Explore More Swedish Fun with Dinolingo
These traditional games are a great way to learn about Swedish culture while having fun. With Dinolingo, kids can also learn the Swedish language through interactive games, songs, and stories. Dinolingo’s award-winning platform makes language learning fun for children ages 2 to 14. It’s available on web, iOS, and Android, and comes with offline access and a helpful parent dashboard. Whether at home or on the go, kids can play and learn anytime!